Penang: The Penang Al-Quran Academy, launched at the end of 2024, is now moving into the implementation phase of its programmes, with a focus on enhancing Quranic education through a more organised, high-quality and professional framework.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Penang Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid said the academy was one of the initiatives under the Penang Islamic Development Agenda 2030 (APAI2030) to foster a society with greater Quranic literacy and promote human capital development rooted in Islamic values.

The academy's initial rollout was carried out through the Basic Tarannum Certificate Programme at Kolej Islam Teknologi Antarabangsa (KITAB), running for two semesters from April 2025 to May 2026. "The programme involves 24 registered participants who are learning seven basic tarannum styles, alongside self-practice and individual recitation guidance from experienced instructors with achievements at state and national levels," Mohamad stated.

The academy's early rollout has also been supported by the Penang Islamic Religious Affairs Department (JHEAIPP), laying the groundwork for its development as a platform for public education, qari and qariah talent development, enhancing the competencies of imams and bilals, and building a pool of Quranic instructors.

Mohamad said the academy's next phase would concentrate on enhancing its modules and evaluation system, training instructors, and expanding the use of digital and hybrid learning approaches. He added that the programme would be gradually expanded through a network of mosques, surau and Islamic education institutions throughout Penang.

"In the next five years, the state government hopes the academy will develop into an authoritative centre for Quranic learning and competency development, helping to produce a generation that understands, practises and embraces the teachings of the Quran," he said.

The academy offers certification in specialisations including Tarannum, Tahsin, Qiraat, Barzanji, Marhaban and other disciplines related to Quranic arts and knowledge.